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'''[[Elevator]] modernization''' (or '''lift modernisation'''<ref>[http://www.tysto.com/uk-us-spelling-list.html UK vs US spelling list]</ref>) is the process of upgrading the critical parts of the elevator in order for it to be able to handle new technology, have better performance, improve safety, and even give the aesthetics an up-to-date appeal<ref>[http://www.emsd.gov.hk/filemanager/en/content_806/19_2011.pdf Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Hong Kong - Circular No. 19/2011 Guidelines for Modernising Existing Lifts]</ref><ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-X8vb61l-jE Modernisation of aged lifts Enjoy a safer and more reliable ride] ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFxLccWCfqc Chinese version]) (Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Hong Kong)</ref>.
  
'''[[Elevator]] modernization''' (or '''lift modernisation'''<ref>[http://www.tysto.com/uk-us-spelling-list.html UK vs US spelling list]</ref>) is the process of upgrading the critical parts of the elevator in order for it to be able to handle new technology, have better performance, improve safety, and even give the aesthetics an up-to-date appeal<ref>[http://www.emsd.gov.hk/filemanager/en/content_806/19_2011.pdf Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Hong Kong - Circular No. 19/2011 Guidelines for Modernising Existing Lifts]</ref><ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-X8vb61l-jE Modernisation of aged lifts Enjoy a safer and more reliable ride] ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFxLccWCfqc Chinese version]) (Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Hong Kong)</ref>.
   
−
Sometimes, '''elevator''' ('''lift''') '''replacement work''' also applied in this term.
 +
Sometimes, '''elevator''' ('''lift''') '''replacement work''' also applied in this term<ref>[https://www.facebook.com/konehk/posts/763318113876500 【富嘉花園升降機優化工程】] (Facebook page: KONE Hong Kong)</ref>.
   
 
==Introduction==
  
==Introduction==
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==The process==
  
==The process==
−
:''Please refer to [[Elevator major alterations]].''
 +
:''Please refer to [[major alterations]].''
 
For starters, an elevator modernization plan will have to be created. This is done usually with the help of an elevator service company which can also do modernization.
  
For starters, an elevator modernization plan will have to be created. This is done usually with the help of an elevator service company which can also do modernization.
   
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| Door operator<ref name="If_exist">If those devices exist.</ref>
  
| Door operator<ref name="If_exist">If those devices exist.</ref>
 
| No
  
| No
  +
| Optional
−
| by building owners
  
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
 
|-
  
|-
 
| Cab design
  
| Cab design
−
| by building owners
 +
| Optional, by building owners
−
| by building owners
 +
| Optional, by building owners
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
 
|-
  
|-
 
| Car doors<ref>Including [[door bumpers]] and [[Door sensors|sensors]]</ref>
  
| Car doors<ref>Including [[door bumpers]] and [[Door sensors|sensors]]</ref>
  +
| Optional
−
| by building owners
  
  +
| Optional
−
| by building owners
  
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
 
|-
  
|-
 
| Car fixtures
  
| Car fixtures
  +
| Optional
⚫
| Yes
  
 
| by building owners
  
| by building owners
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
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| Wedges connected to the governor<ref name="ascending">To make an ascending car overspeed protection.</ref><ref name="If_exist"/>
  
| Wedges connected to the governor<ref name="ascending">To make an ascending car overspeed protection.</ref><ref name="If_exist"/>
 
| No
  
| No
  ⚫
| colspan="3" rowspan="1" | by elevator safety code in countries
⚫
| No
  
⚫
| Yes
  
⚫
| Yes
  
 
|-
  
|-
 
| Additional phone/intercom and security camera if they don't equipped
  
| Additional phone/intercom and security camera if they don't equipped
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|-
  
|-
 
| Shaft door components
  
| Shaft door components
  +
| Optional
−
| by building owners
  
  ⚫
| Yes
−
| by building owners
  
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
 
|-
  
|-
 
| Shaft doors
  
| Shaft doors
  +
| Optional
−
| by building owners
  
  ⚫
| Yes
−
| by building owners
  
  ⚫
| Yes
−
| by building owners
  
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
 
|-
  
|-
 
| Hall fixtures
  
| Hall fixtures
  +
| Optional
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
−
| by building owners
  
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
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! colspan="5" |Machine room
  
! colspan="5" |Machine room
 
|-
  
|-
  +
| Machines<ref>For traction machines, new machines usually equipped with at least two brakes and works independently.</ref>
−
| Machines
  
 
| No
  
| No
  +
| Optional
−
| by building owners
  
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
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|-
  
|-
 
| Removal of the [[selector]]<ref name="If_exist"/>
  
| Removal of the [[selector]]<ref name="If_exist"/>
  ⚫
| No
−
| by building owners
  
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
 
| Yes
  
| Yes
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| [[Overspeed governor]]<ref name="ascending"/><ref name="If_exist"/>
  
| [[Overspeed governor]]<ref name="ascending"/><ref name="If_exist"/>
 
| No
  
| No
  +
| colspan="3" rowspan="2" | by elevator safety code in countries<ref>[https://youtu.be/cE9u-bDuUTA 日本オーチス・エレベータ - 戸開走行保護装置（UCMP）]</ref>
−
| No
  
−
| Yes
  
−
| Yes
  
 
|-
  
|-
−
| Additional unintended car movement protection device if they don't equipped
 +
| Additional [[ascending car overspeed protection|ACOP]] and [[unintended car movement protection|UCMP]] device if they don't equipped
 
| by building owners
  
| by building owners
⚫
| colspan="3" | by elevator safety code in countries
  
 
|-
  
|-
 
| Backup battery or uninterruptible power supply<ref name="If_exist"/>
  
| Backup battery or uninterruptible power supply<ref name="If_exist"/>
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==Notable elevator modernization packages==
  
==Notable elevator modernization packages==
 
[[Elevator Wiki:Disclaimer|Disclaimer]]: Almost every elevator companies provides elevator modernization packages to building owners. Here are some notable elevator modernization packages provided by the elevator companies. Building owners can have their own customize modernization solutions. Elevatorpedia strongly recommend building owners, consult to the professionals suggestions before the construction project get started.
  
[[Elevator Wiki:Disclaimer|Disclaimer]]: Almost every elevator companies provides elevator modernization packages to building owners. Here are some notable elevator modernization packages provided by the elevator companies. Building owners can have their own customize modernization solutions. Elevatorpedia strongly recommend building owners, consult to the professionals suggestions before the construction project get started.
  +
 
===Fujitec===
  
===Fujitec===
 
*Modernization for Royal Superdyne
  
*Modernization for Royal Superdyne
  +
  +
===Hitachi===
  +
*GS-1 (only available in Thailand and Philippines)
  +
*GS-2 (only available in Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong)
  +
  +
===Kone===
  +
*ReSolve 800
  +
*ReGenerate 800
   
 
===Mitsubishi===
  
===Mitsubishi===
−
*ELEMOTION (for low to mid-rise buildings, since 2001)
 +
*[[Mitsubishi ELEMOTION|ELEMOTION]] (for low to mid-rise buildings, since 2001)
−
*NexWay Modernization (for high-rise buildings)
 +
*[[Mitsubishi NexWay Modernization|NexWay Modernization]] (for high-rise buildings)
   
 
===Otis===
  
===Otis===
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===Schindler===
  
===Schindler===
 
*Miconic HXpress (for North America)
  
*Miconic HXpress (for North America)
  +
*6300 (for Europe and Asia Pacific)
−
*6300
  
 
*6400 NA (for North America)
  
*6400 NA (for North America)
−
*6500
 +
*6500 (for Europe)
 
*Schindler Modernization
  
*Schindler Modernization
   
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==See also==
  
==See also==
  ⚫
*[[Escalator modernization]]
  +
===Government related projects===
 
*[[Lift Upgrading Programme]] (Singapore, discontinued project)
  
*[[Lift Upgrading Programme]] (Singapore, discontinued project)
 
*[[Lift Modernisation Programme]] (Hong Kong, ongoing project)
  
*[[Lift Modernisation Programme]] (Hong Kong, ongoing project)
  +
⚫
*[[Escalator modernization]]
  
  +
===7 essential parts related to the elevator modernization===
  +
*[[Redundant brake system]]
  +
*[[Ascending car overspeed protection]]
  +
*[[Unintended car movement protection]]
  +
*[[Door interlocks]], [[door bumpers|bumpers]] and [[door sensors|sensors]]
  +
*[[Elevator emergency communication system|Intercom, emergency phone]] and [[closed-circuit television system|security camera]]
  +
*[[Slack-rope switch|Suspension ropes obstruction switch]]
  +
*[[Elevator emergency automatic rescue device|Emergency automatic rescue device]]
   
 
==External links==
  
==External links==
 
===Government official guidelines===
  
===Government official guidelines===
−
*[http://www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/e_download/pps/le/Modernising_Lifts.pdf Guidelines for Modernising Existing Lifts] ([http://www.emsd.gov.hk/filemanager/tc/content_803/Guidelines%20for%20Modernising%20Existing%20Lifts%20(C).pdf Chinese version]) (Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Hong Kong)
 +
*[https://www.emsd.gov.hk/en/lifts_and_escalators_safety/responsible_persons_corner/lift_modernisation_resource_corner/index.html Lift Modernisation Resource Corner]([https://www.emsd.gov.hk/tc/lifts_and_escalators_safety/responsible_persons_corner/lift_modernisation_resource_corner/index.html Chinese version]) (Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Hong Kong)
−
*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7kT8AqAs5E Lift Modernization Safe Use of Lifts & Escalators] (Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Hong Kong)
 +
**[http://www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/e_download/pps/le/Modernising_Lifts.pdf Guidelines for Modernising Existing Lifts] ([http://www.emsd.gov.hk/filemanager/tc/content_803/Guidelines%20for%20Modernising%20Existing%20Lifts%20(C).pdf Chinese version]) (Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Hong Kong)
  +
**[https://www.emsd.gov.hk/filemanager/tc/content_1144/pms2015-1.pdf Modernisation of Existing Lifts] (Chinese only) (Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Hong Kong)
  +
**[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7kT8AqAs5E Lift Modernization Safe Use of Lifts & Escalators] (Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Hong Kong)
  +
  +
===Vendors' elevator modernization solutions===
  +
*[https://www.kone.hk/en/Images/UCMP-ACOP-4pages%20Eng_tcm153-75148.pdf KONE Solutions for Elevator Modernization] ([https://www.kone.hk/zh/Images/UCMP-ACOP-4pages_tcm157-75953.pdf Chinese version]) - KONE (Hong Kong), for the Hong Kong's Code of Practices only.
   
 
===Fan-made guidelines===
  
===Fan-made guidelines===
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{{Template:Elevator}}
  
{{Template:Elevator}}
−
[[Category:Elevator Modernization|*]]
 +
[[Category:Elevator modernization|*]]

Revision as of 17:02, 24 May 2020

Schindler elevator modernization

An elevator is being modernized into Schindler 3300 AP MRL in 2013. The former elevator was a 1991 Dong Yang hydraulic elevator.

Schindler5500 LukYeungGalleria (3)

An elevator is being modernized into Schindler 5500 elevator in 2013. The former elevator was a 1980s Falconi traction elevator. The right one already modernized.

Elevator modernization (or lift modernisation[1]) is the process of upgrading the critical parts of the elevator in order for it to be able to handle new technology, have better performance, improve safety, and even give the aesthetics an up-to-date appeal[2][3].

Sometimes, elevator (lift) replacement work also applied in this term[4].

Introduction

Most elevators are built to provide about 30 to 40 years of service (although some elevators as old as 50 years or more are still in service), as long as service intervals specified and periodic maintenance/inspections by the manufacturer are followed. As the elevator ages and equipment become increasingly difficult to find or replace, along with code changes and deteriorating ride performance, a complete overhaul of the elevator may be suggested to the building owners[5].

Typically, a modernization will affect the controller equipment (the part of the elevator that controls the movement of the elevator through the floors), the hoist machines and motors (the part of the elevator that does the heavy lifting), electrical wiring and buttons of the cab (controlling the lights, destination floors, etc.,) even the tracks of the doors are sometimes modified and changed, all to keep the elevator up-to-date, and to the aesthetics conscious, paneling, electronics, and additional style changes can also be done in the interior of the cabs.

It must be emphasized that existing elevators, if properly maintained and periodically examined, are safe[5].

The process

Please refer to major alterations.

For starters, an elevator modernization plan will have to be created. This is done usually with the help of an elevator service company which can also do modernization.

This process will determine which parts of the elevator will have to be modernized, the scope of the procedure, and most importantly,  making sure that code compliance is met. Once this is done, preventive maintenance will have to be done until the elevator is removed from service.

During this time, the elevator will be out of service, so building owners will have to compensate for this. This includes proper diversion of building’s traffic, creating contingency plans, and so on. This is needed because depending on the amount of modernization done, the number of elevators, and the size of the building, the whole process may take anywhere from a few months, to a whole year.

When the process complete, elevator service company must complete the elevator examination for newly installed elevator or elevator recently complete the major alterations before it back in service.

Components that need to be replaced in different elevator modernization plans

Disclaimer: These are the plans with the basic requirement for the elevator modernization. Terms may vary by the elevator safety code in some countries. Elevatorpedia strongly recommend building owners, consult to the professionals suggestions before the construction project get started.

Component Scheme of elevator modernization plan
Refurbishment work Partial modernization Full modernization Full replacement
Elevator car
Sling No No by building owners Yes
Door operator[6] No Optional Yes Yes
Cab design Optional, by building owners Optional, by building owners Yes Yes
Car doors[7] Optional Optional Yes Yes
Car fixtures Optional by building owners Yes Yes
Wedges connected to the governor[8][6] No by elevator safety code in countries
Additional phone/intercom and security camera if they don't equipped by building owners Yes Yes Yes
Traveling cable No Yes Yes Yes
Wire ropes[6] No by building owners Yes Yes
Shaft
Counterweight[6] No No No Yes
Hydraulic rams[6] No No No Yes
Guide rails No No No Yes
Buffers No No Yes Yes
Electrical components No No No Yes
Tapehead[6] No Yes Yes Yes
Limit switches[6] No Yes Yes Yes
Wiring No Yes Yes Yes
Compensations[6] No No No Yes
Lobby
Shaft door components Optional Yes Yes Yes
Shaft doors Optional Yes Yes Yes
Hall fixtures Optional Yes Yes Yes
Machine room
Machines[9] No Optional Yes Yes
Controllers No Yes Yes Yes
Removal of the selector[6] No Yes Yes Yes
Overspeed governor[8][6] No by elevator safety code in countries[10]
Additional ACOP and UCMP device if they don't equipped by building owners
Backup battery or uninterruptible power supply[6] No Yes Yes Yes

Notable elevator modernization packages

Disclaimer: Almost every elevator companies provides elevator modernization packages to building owners. Here are some notable elevator modernization packages provided by the elevator companies. Building owners can have their own customize modernization solutions. Elevatorpedia strongly recommend building owners, consult to the professionals suggestions before the construction project get started.

Fujitec

  • Modernization for Royal Superdyne

Hitachi

  • GS-1 (only available in Thailand and Philippines)
  • GS-2 (only available in Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong)

Kone

  • ReSolve 800
  • ReGenerate 800

Mitsubishi

Otis

  • HydroAccel (for North America)
  • Gen2 Mod (for low to mid-rise buildings)
  • Elevonic R-Series (for North America)
  • Elevonic 411M

Schindler

  • Miconic HXpress (for North America)
  • 6300 (for Europe and Asia Pacific)
  • 6400 NA (for North America)
  • 6500 (for Europe)
  • Schindler Modernization

Toshiba

  • ELFRESH

thyssenkrupp

  • MOD Solutions (for North America)
    • H Power (formerly HYPower, hydraulic elevator modernization)
    • G2 Power (geared to gearless traction elevator modernization)
    • G Power (formerly Numbers, geared elevator modernization)
    • GL Power (gearless elevator modernization)
    • AT Power (modernization to destination dispatch)

Benefits of elevator modernization

Modernization can greatly improve operational reliability by replacing mechanical relays and contacts with solid-state electronics. Ride quality can be improved by replacing motor-generator-based drive designs with Variable-Voltage, Variable Frequency (VVVF) drives, providing near-seamless acceleration and deceleration. Passenger safety is also improved by updating systems and equipment (such as redundant brake system, unintended car movement protection device on the brake system[11][12]. etc.) to conform to current codes.

Problems of elevator modernization

Many vintage elevator enthusiasts dislike elevator modernization, because it reduces the aesthetic appeal of the elevator with a generic, modern design, and also may not blend in with the architecture of historic buildings. Also, some people criticize that modernized elevators aren't as well made or have as long a lifespan, because of the sensitive electronic controllers, cheaper made mechanical parts, and fast work method. As a result, some people say that elevators should not be modernized, unless it's absolutely needed, and if so, should be done in a high quality, efficient manner.[13]

Gallery

Notes and references

  1. ↑ UK vs US spelling list
  2. ↑ Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Hong Kong - Circular No. 19/2011 Guidelines for Modernising Existing Lifts
  3. ↑ Modernisation of aged lifts Enjoy a safer and more reliable ride (Chinese version) (Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Hong Kong)
  4. ↑ 【富嘉花園升降機優化工程】 (Facebook page: KONE Hong Kong)
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 Guidelines for Modernising Existing Lifts (Chinese version) (Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, Hong Kong)
  6. ↑ 6.00 6.01 6.02 6.03 6.04 6.05 6.06 6.07 6.08 6.09 6.10 If those devices exist.
  7. ↑ Including door bumpers and sensors
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 To make an ascending car overspeed protection.
  9. ↑ For traction machines, new machines usually equipped with at least two brakes and works independently.
  10. ↑ 日本オーチス・エレベータ - 戸開走行保護装置（UCMP）
  11. ↑ What is an Elevator Rope Gripper (by ElevatorAdjuster)
  12. ↑ Lift Rope Brake (by hkelev.com)
  13. ↑ Generic lift companies (Beno.org.uk)

See also

Government related projects

7 essential parts related to the elevator modernization

External links

Government official guidelines

Vendors' elevator modernization solutions

Fan-made guidelines

Elevator 
Drive systems: Traction • Winding Drum • Hydraulic

Types of elevators: Double Deck • Dumbwaiter • Fireman's • Freight • Incline • Passenger • Residential • Wheelchair lift

Concept: Capacity • Destination dispatch • Elevator algorithm • Elevator control system • Elevator machine room • Elevator maintenance • Elevator monitoring system • Elevator modernization • ACOP & UCMP • Machine room less elevator • Major alterations • Rated speed

Elevator systems, controllers and equipments: Elevator emergency automatic rescue device • Elevator fixtures • Elevator keys • Elevator special modes • Elevator doors • Door cam • Door interlocks (Interlock wiring communication system) • Door restrictor • Elevator Inspection Certificate • Emergency stop button • Floor designators • Gate switch • Old Deadman controls • Overspeed governor • Motor-generator set & Silicon-controlled rectifier (for DC-powered elevators) • Insulated-gate bipolar transistor (for AC-VVVF-powered elevators) • Selector • Tape head • Regenerative converter (for AC-VVVF-powered elevators)

See also: List of elevator fixtures guide • List of elevator and escalator companies • Elevator door sill guide (Non-proprietary elevator component door sill guide) • Floor numbering (Unlucky floor numbers) • Elevator incidents and accidents

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